North Eastern York War Memorial – Completed

Scope of Work

The restoration of the York War Memorial is a complex undertaking, combining traditional techniques with modern conservation practices. The scope of work includes:

• Detailed Surveying: A thorough survey was conducted to document the monument’s condition and pinpoint areas requiring repair. This survey was essential to our approach, ensuring that each step adhered to the highest standards of historical accuracy and structural integrity.
• Cost Planning: In collaboration with our partners, Henley Restoration and Remedials provided an accurate cost plan to manage resources efficiently, ensuring the project met budgetary constraints without compromising on quality.
• Sensitive Cleaning: A full, non-invasive clean of the entire monument was performed to remove decades of pollution and biological growth, restoring its original brightness while preserving the natural patina.
• Stone Restoration and Replacements: Areas of damaged or decayed Portland Stone were carefully restored, with selected stones replaced in keeping with the original material to ensure continuity in appearance and structure.
• Repointing: Our specialists carried out lime mortar repointing to stabilise and protect joints, improving the monument’s structural integrity and resistance to weathering.
• Final Heritage-Sensitive Clean: As a standard quality practice of our Restoration and Remedials team, a final heritage-sensitive clean was carried out upon completion. This ensured the memorial stands gleaming and fully prepared for public viewing and continued use.

Challenges and Solutions

Working with a century-old structure brings unique challenges, from adhering to heritage guidelines to preserving the memorial’s historical integrity. Henley Restoration and Remedials leveraged its extensive experience in heritage restoration, using conservation-grade materials and techniques to meet the stringent requirements for a Grade II* listed site. Additionally, the memorial’s public location required thoughtful planning to minimise disruptions and maintain a respectful environment around this significant landmark.

Outcome and Future Preservation

Now fully completed, the North Eastern York War Memorial stands proudly once again, restored to its former dignity and character. The combination of targeted stone replacements, sympathetic repointing, and a thorough final clean has reinvigorated the monument, allowing it to continue serving as a lasting tribute to those it commemorates.

 “It has been an absolute pleasure working with Henley Restoration & Remedials on the recent restoration of the North-Eastern York War Memorial, a deeply meaningful project commemorating the brave souls lost in World War I and II. This Grade II-listed monument holds immense historical and emotional significance, and thanks to Henley’s expert guidance, it now stands once more with the dignity and pride it so rightly deserves.

Their guidance and expertise throughout were invaluable, particularly given the complexities of working on a Grade II-listed structure. From the initial survey through to completion, they ensured all work was carried out in line with heritage and conservation guidelines.

The quality of workmanship from their team was of a high standard, reflecting both care and attention to detail. Their involvement was a real asset to the wider project team.

We appreciate their contribution and look forward to the opportunity to work together again on future heritage and infrastructure projects.”

Steven Entwistle, Senior Project Manager, CML

About Henley Restoration and Remedials

Henley Restoration and Remedials is proud to support the preservation of the UK’s most important heritage structures. Our specialist teams bring expert knowledge, attention to detail, and a deep respect for historical integrity to every project. The successful delivery of this project is a testament to our capability in managing and executing heritage restoration schemes of national significance.